18. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the increase in the number of crimes of violence, involving the safety of the police, and the extent to which these crimes are facilitated by the use of motor vehicles, he will consider as to arranging for police officers 1542 to carry firearms when on duty in circumstances, as to locality or otherwise, which appear to justify that course?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThis is a matter within the discretion of the chief officer of police concerned, and no special instructions on my part appear to be required.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENWould it not be possible to suggest that some small shot should be used, capable of marking the cars that are escaping, so as to identify them?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI will consider that suggestion.